It is difficult to relate to a place until you’ve seen it. Boston, Massachusetts is just such a place. The Boston history predates our Texas history by more than two centuries. We’re not going to bore you with overwhelming historical data. For more information, CLICK HERE.
When we returned from our morning tours of Lexington and Concord, we hopped on a tour boat for a cruise around Boston Harbor. (Just a hint about this cruise, if you ever do it, sit on the starboard (right) side of the boat. The guide only refers to stuff “off to the right” both coming and going.) [Click on Photo to Enlarge]
When we boarded the cruise, we noticed that the harbor water near the dock had a high population of jelly fish.
The highlight of the harbor cruise was a view of the world’s oldest commissioned naval vessel, the USS Constitution, also known as “Old Ironsides”, launched in 1797.
In order to remain a commissioned vessel, the ship must make at least one voyage per year. On July 4th of each year, the Constitution sets sail into the harbor and returns to port. The frigate ties up to the dock in the opposite direction so that the sun hits the other side for a year, thus evening out the weathering for the vessel.
Our earlier morning tour had taken us past many Boston landmarks. The Boston area has one of the densest populations of colleges and universities anywhere. We went through the campuses of Boston College, MIT, and Harvard University. Below is the Harvard Philosophy Dept.
Following the harbor cruise, we jumped on a trolley that wandered the entire city with stops throughout. You can hop on and off the trolley at any of the stops.
Along the route, stops included areas such as Paul Revere’s home, Beacon Hill, King’s Chapel, China Town, Boston’s waterfront (Boston Tea Party site is being refurbished), and Fenway Park.
Other less noble spots included the Cheers bar.
Below is the famous park, Boston Common. Not only is it a nice park, but below the surface is a giant parking garage. An elevator in the center of the park takes you to the garage. Our parking for the day was about $24.00.
We finished our marathon day with dinner at the famous Chart House Restaurant. This building was used by John Hancock for many of his businesses.
Many people were enjoying the outdoor tables.
After a long hot day, we opted for the comfort of the indoor air conditioning. Tinka is still looking refreshed after the long day.
The wood and iron work inside was impressing. The staircase, next to our table, has seen a lot of traffic over the years.
We made our way, by taxi, back to Boston Common to retrieve our car. All in all, we had a great day. Neither of us had been to the Boston area before and found the history fascinating.
Dear Rick and Tinka – Thanks for the illustrated tour of Boston! We’ve never been there but your pictures and commentary were the next best thing!
We are currently in Saratoga Springs, New York headed for Quebec, Canada.
Travel well, safely and have fun.
Bruce and MarySue